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If Your Child Has Trouble Adjusting After a Burn Injury

Symptoms that your child may be having trouble adjusting

It's very hard to cope in times of stress. Children are less able to cope with stress because of their limited life experience. Some symptoms that your child may be having trouble include:

Agitated behavior, such as crying or thumb sucking

Disturbed body functions, such as eating, sleeping, or going to the bathroom

Separation anxiety, such as clinging, refusing to sleep alone, or wanting to be held all the time

Sleep problems and nightmares

Lapses in toilet training, dressing, or self-feeding skill. For instance, a child who is potty trained may start having accidents.

Withdrawal from family or friends

Less self-confidence

Makes negative comments about self

Verbal and physical aggression

Repeated episodes of sadness

Acting out traumatic events in play

Trouble concentrating

Behavior changes (the quiet child may become frantic and the energetic child may become lethargic)

Physical problems, such as headaches, stomachaches, or dizziness

More dependence on parents or caregivers

Resentment of unfairness of situation, blaming

Trouble with peers

Unrealistic expectations of self and others

Concern with body image

Frustration and rebellion

Reluctance to trust or open self to others

Feeling hopeless, that life is meaningless

Depression

Poor impulse control, easily frustrated

Drug and alcohol abuse

Any unusual, ongoing behavior should be checked by a mental health provider. It often helps to seek professional care when you are concerned or unsure what do next. If one or more of these behaviors continues over a long period of time, professional help may be needed. Contact your child's doctor to talk about these changes or get a referral to a psychologist or psychiatrist. If the behavior problems are severe enough, go to the emergency room.